Several studies suggest a connection between obesity and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). One study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics and Gynaecology evaluated 874 women ages 18 to 44 using the Shortened Premenstrual Assessment Form. Obesity was defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. The researchers found that while the overall prevalence of PMS in the group was just over 10%, obese women had nearly triple the rate of PMS compared to women with lower BMI.[1]
Eating patterns may also play a role. A separate study published in the British Journal of Nutrition examined 144 women who completed the Steiner self-rated PMS questionnaire; 88 were identified as having PMS. Over two menstrual cycles, the women kept detailed dietary diaries. The analysis showed that women with PMS consumed significantly more total calories premenstrually, especially from fat, simple sugars, and refined carbohydrates, compared to their postmenstrual intake.[2]
